A Guide to Mental Health
Brain Architecture
Early experiences and exposures, beginning before birth, shape the developing brain and other biological systems, laying the foundation for lifelong mental health. Negative experiences and exposures in the developmental environment during this critical period—including factors like toxic stress, persistent neglect, or the challenges of poverty—can affect a child’s ability to learn and build relationships, impacting their well-being throughout the lifespan.
As with so many other aspects of early childhood development, mental health outcomes are shaped not only by a child’s early experiences and exposures but also by genes and timing, with the earliest years being of critical importance. Policies that support the creation of healthy developmental environments—and reduce sources of stress for children, caregivers, and communities—can help support the lifelong mental health of our children. Explore the resources in this guide to learn how the foundations of mental health are built and how a child’s earliest experiences shape the architecture of the developing brain.
